Fiber Content Research Articles

Effects of water-unextractable arabinoxylan from wheat processing wastewater on the quality characteristics of multigrain bread

The water-unextractable arabinoxylan (WUAX) was extracted from the wheat processing wastewater to replace the flour in the bread formula and improve the quality characteristics of the multigrain bread. We investigated the effects of WUAX substitution concentration (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 g/100 g high gluten flour weight) on multigrain bread texture, microstructure, color difference variation, relative crystallinity, moisture distribution, and sensory evaluation. Within the specified range, the bread hardness increased by 4.0 N, a negative effect on the bound water in bread and significant changes in the color difference were observed. The optimal substitution level was 7.5%, increasing the crude fiber content by 33% (dry weight ratio) and reducing the starch content by 10%, maintaining the specific volume and hardness similar to the control group. The scanning electron microscopy X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements showed that WUAX affected the aggregation of protein and starch, and reduced the relative crystallinity of bread, retarding bread staling. The WUAX replacing flour (7.5% replacement level) also provided good sensory evaluation. Overall, WUAX boosts bread's dietary fiber content while lowering its starch proportion. Although WUAX had negatively impact on bread texture, a 7.5% substitution level could minimize these effects. This study offered insights for the dietary applications of WUAX from wheat processing wastewater.

Study on the deterioration mechanism of hybrid basalt-polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete under sulfate freeze-thaw cycles

This paper focuses on the deterioration mechanism of hybrid basalt-polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete (HBPRC) under the coupling of sulfate freeze-thaw cycles. The changes in the macroscopic properties of HBPRC under the influence of different volume contents of basalt fiber (BF), polypropylene fiber (PF) and hybrid BF-BF were investigated. The microstructure of HBPRC was characterized using the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technique, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the deterioration models of the BF- matrix interfacial transition zone (BF-ITZ) and the PF- matrix interfacial transition zone (PF-ITZ) in HBPRC were developed. The results showed that the fibers effectively reduced the cracking and macroscopic property damage induced by sulfate freeze-thaw cycles as the number of freeze-thaw cycles increased. When both BF and PF volume contents are mixed at 0.05 %, they can produce complementary effects, and their formation of a uniformly distributed three-dimensional mesh structure is more conducive to reducing the damage to the concrete, and their relative dynamic modulus of elasticity and compressive strength after 300 times of sulfate freeze-thaw cycles were increased by 67.10 % and 46.92 % compared with control concrete. At the same time, the addition of fibers resulted in a more stable evolution of the pore structure of the concrete, and the porosity of the specimens with fibers added at a volume admixture of 0.05 % and 0.1 % was reduced by 13.69–21.35 % after 300 cycles of sulfate freeze-thaw cycling, compared with control concrete. From the BF-ITZ and PF-ITZ deterioration models, it was concluded that the differences in the bonding performance of BF and PF to the concrete matrix affected the degree of frost damage to which they were subjected to coupling and the efficiency of salt solution replenishment, which in turn led to differences in the damage of each group of HBPRC. The reliability of the model was further verified by SEM observation of the morphological changes of different fiber-matrix ITZs before and after sulfate freeze-thaw cycles.

Changes of collagen content in lung tissues of plateau yak and its mechanism of adaptation to hypoxia.

Collagen is crucial for tissue structure, functional maintenance, and cellular processes such as proliferation and differentiation. However, the specific changes in collagen expression and its associated genes in the lung tissues of yaks at high altitudes and their relationship with environmental adaptation remain poorly understood. Studying differences in the content of collagen fibers and gene expression between yaks at high (4,500 m) and low (2,600 m) altitudes, as well as between cattle at low altitudes (2,600 m). Using Masson staining, we found that the collagen fiber content in the lung tissues of yaks at low altitude was significantly higher compared to yaks at high altitude and cattle at the same altitude (P < 0.05). It was revealed through transcriptomic analyses that genes differentially expressed between high and low altitude yaks, as well as between low altitude yaks and cattle, were notably enriched in pathways related to cell adhesion, collagen synthesis, focal adhesion, and ECM-receptor interactions. Specifically, genes involved in mesenchymal collagen synthesis (e.g., COL1A1, COL1A2, COL3A1), basement membrane collagen synthesis (e.g., COL4A1, COL4A2, COL4A4, COL4A6), and peripheral collagen synthesis (e.g., COL5A1, COL6A1, COL6A2, COL6A3) were significantly upregulated in the lung tissues of yaks at low altitude compared to their high altitude counterparts and cattle (P < 0.05). In conclusion, yaks at lower altitudes exhibit increased collagen synthesis by upregulating collagen gene expression, which contributes to maintaining alveolar stability and septal flexibility. Conversely, the expression of collagen genes in yak lung tissues was down-regulated with the increase in altitude, and it was speculated that the decrease in collagen may be used to constrain the function of elastic fibers that are more abundant at high altitude, so as to enable them to adapt to the harsh environment with hypoxia and high altitude. This adaptation mechanism highlights the role of collagen in environmental acclimatization and contributes to our understanding of how altitude and species influence collagen-related physiological processes in yaks.

Sensory evaluation, nutritional profile and chromatographic characterization of Panjeeri laddu: A traditional nutritional supplement for postpartum healthcare

BACKGROUND: Panjeeri laddu (PL), a traditional dietary regime popular in Himachal Pradesh and other northern parts of India, is utilized for postpartum care. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional profile, sensory analysis of PL, which may highlight its potential health benefits. In addition, HPTLC and FTIR analysis were performed to further characterize the prepared PL. METHODS: Proximate analysis of PL was done to determine the content of moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrates, ash, and fiber—mineral analysis quantified calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. High-performance liquid chromatography-based vitamin analysis identified the presence of B vitamins (B1, B3, B5, B6, and B9) and vitamin E. Fatty acid profiles were determined using gas chromatography. A sensory analysis of the prepared PL was conducted through 20 volunteers. RESULTS: The analysis revealed that PL is a calorie-dense food source, rich in protein (15.23 g/100 g), fat (38.10 g/100 g), and carbohydrates (40.18 g/100 g). Micronutrient analysis identified the presence of essential minerals and B vitamins. The fatty acid profile indicated the presence of both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. DISCUSSION: The nutritional profile of PL suggests its potential to contribute to energy intake and provide essential nutrients during postpartum recovery. Investigation of the bioactive compounds present in PL and their potential health benefits is warranted. Understanding these properties could support the traditional use of PL in postpartum care and pave the way for future research on its potential therapeutic applications. CONCLUSION: This study provides a foundation for understanding the nutritional value of PL. The results support the continued exploration of PL’s potential role in promoting postpartum health and well-being.

Evaluation of Physical and Sensory Properties of Biscuits Made from Blended Wheat Flour and Pumpkin Powder

Biscuit is a type of confectionery popular among all age groups and able to change to become a complete food with necessary nutrients. Pumpkin is a nutritious vegetable that has high post-harvest losses in Sri Lanka. The aim of this research was to analyze the composition of pumpkin powder and evaluate the physical and sensory properties of biscuits made from blended wheat flour and pumpkin powder. Analyses revealed that moisture, protein, fat, ash, crude fiber, and carbohydrate content of pumpkin powder were 8.5%, 5.2%, 1.2%, 3.4%, 4% and 77.7% respectively. Biscuits were made by replacing wheat flour with pumpkin powder at different levels as 0, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40% (w/w) in the standard formulation. When the percentage of pumpkin powder increased from 10 to 40%, the thickness of biscuits decreased significantly compared to control (0%) There was a significant increment in the spread ratio of biscuits between 10 and 40% levels of pumpkin powder when compared with the control. While 10 to 40% replacement levels of pumpkin powder resulted in significant increase in biscuit hardness, it decreased moisture content significantly compared to control. The color of the biscuits was assessed in terms of lightness, redness, and yellowness. When increasing the pumpkin powder percentage in biscuit, lightness reduced, while redness and yellowness increased gradually. Consumer acceptability test on sensory attributes indicated 5% (w/w) level of pumpkin powder was the most preferred replacement level. The study concludes that pumpkin powder has the potential to be used in biscuit applications.

An ultrathin ultralight electromagnetic absorber based on shortcut glass-coated amorphous magnetic Fiber/Salisbury-like screen

A structural design methodology is proposed for an ultrathin, ultralight, and absorption-adjustable electromagnetic absorber. The proposed absorber (SFSL) consists of an absorbing layer with shortcut glass-coated amorphous magnetic fiber and a substrate layer with transmitting material. This absorber features a Salisbury-like screen structure and incorporates multiple loss mechanisms. By investigating the influence of fiber distribution, length, content, and substrate layer thickness on absorption performance, it has been determined that the weight per square meter and thickness of a single-layer SFSL can be lowered within 50 g/m2 and 1.5 mm respectively. Furthermore, the absorption intensity and bandwidth can be adjusted by manipulating these parameters. The SFSL exhibits resonant behavior similar to that of a metamaterial absorber; however, SFSL with randomly distributed fibers demonstrates broader and stronger absorption characteristics in the frequency range from 2 to18 GHz. Additionally, the thicknesses of the substrate layer and surface covering affect the electromagnetic response characteristics. This work provides a simple strategy for constructing an ultrathin and ultralight composite to achieve efficient absorption of electromagnetic waves.

PAI-1 Regulates the Cytoskeleton and Intrinsic Stiffness of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells.

Plasma concentration of PAI-1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) correlates with arterial stiffness. Vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) express PAI-1, and the intrinsic stiffness of SMCs is a major determinant of total arterial stiffness. We hypothesized that PAI-1 promotes SMC stiffness by regulating the cytoskeleton and that pharmacological inhibition of PAI-1 decreases SMC and aortic stiffness. PAI-039, a specific inhibitor of PAI-1, and small interfering RNA were used to inhibit PAI-1 expression in cultured human SMCs. Effects of PAI-1 inhibition on SMC stiffness, F-actin (filamentous actin) content, and cytoskeleton-modulating enzymes were assessed. WT (wild-type) and PAI-1-deficient murine SMCs were used to determine PAI-039 specificity. RNA sequencing was performed to determine the effects of PAI-039 on SMC gene expression. In vivo effects of PAI-039 were assessed by aortic pulse wave velocity. PAI-039 significantly reduced intrinsic stiffness of human SMCs, which was accompanied by a significant decrease in cytoplasmic F-actin content. PAI-1 gene knockdown also decreased cytoplasmic F-actin. PAI-1 inhibition significantly increased the activity of cofilin, an F-actin depolymerase, in WT murine SMCs, but not in PAI-1-deficient SMCs. RNA-sequencing analysis suggested that PAI-039 upregulates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) signaling in SMCs, which was confirmed by Western blotting. Inhibition of AMPK prevented activation of cofilin by PAI-039. In mice, PAI-039 significantly decreased aortic stiffness and tunica media F-actin content without altering the elastin or collagen content. PAI-039 decreases intrinsic SMC stiffness and cytoplasmic stress fiber content. These effects are mediated by AMPK-dependent activation of cofilin. PAI-039 also decreases aortic stiffness in vivo. These findings suggest that PAI-1 is an important regulator of the SMC cytoskeleton and that pharmacological inhibition of PAI-1 has the potential to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases involving arterial stiffening.

Co-fermentation of hot-pressed rapeseed meal with multiple strains and cellulase: Evaluating changes in protein quality and metabolite profiles

Hot-pressed rapeseed meal (RSM) is rich in resources, but high fiber content and low protein utilization result from high temperature processing. This study aims to obtain a high-quality protein source through the fermentation of hot-pressed RSM. We used Plackett-Burman and Box-Behnken designs to optimize parameters for solid state fermentation with Bacillus subtilis strain 5, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Aspergillus niger. Under the optimum conditions, the synergistic fermentation with multiple strains and cellulase significantly reduced anti-nutritional factors in hot-pressed RSM, while also increasing protein solubility, digestibility and extraction rate by 466.80%, 45.56% and 816.44%, respectively. 77 enzymes secreted by fermentation strains were identified in fermented hot-pressed RSM, which were mainly involved in the metabolism of proteins, peptides and amino acids (28.6%), energy (28.5%), carbohydrates (13.0%) and lipids (5.2%). Non-targeted metabonomics identified 1245 differential metabolites, with the top five being peptides and amino acids, lipids, heterocyclic compounds, alkaloids, and organic acids. These differential metabolites enhanced the nutritional, functional and flavor properties of fermented hot-pressed RSM. Among them, 702 differential metabolites were enriched into metabolic pathways, with the largest number of pathways associated with amino acid metabolism. These results hold important implications for understanding the quality of fermented hot pressed RSM.

Physico-mechanical characterization and DFT studies of benzoyl peroxide treated water hyacinth reinforced polypropylene composites

The use of eco-friendly natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites is rapidly expanding across diverse sectors. The rapid spread of water hyacinth disrupts aquatic ecosystems by modifying the pH of water and salinity in Bangladesh. This work investigated on the impact of incorporating both untreated and chemically treated water hyacinth fibers into polypropylene (PP). Untreated water hyacinth (UWH) powder was treated with an alkaline solution, producing mercerized water hyacinth (MWH). MWH was further oxidized to yield oxidized water hyacinth (OWH). Analysis of attenuated total reflection-fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectra of UWH, MWH and OWH confirmed cellulose modification. The UWH and OWH were taken in varying contents (1, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 wt%) and added to PP to make UWH-PP and OWH-PP composites using compression molding technique. The 1 % fiber content OWH-PP composites exhibited enhanced tensile strength, elongation, and impact strength compared to UWH-PP composites. Enhanced mechanical properties in OWH-PP composites suggested that benzoyl peroxide treatment improves interfacial adhesion. Morphological analysis of the OWH-PP composite showed better interfacial bonding between water hyacinth and PP than that of the UWH-PP composite. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) depicted the thermal stability of the UWH-PP and OWH-PP composites. The chemical reaction of cellulose monomer was further studied with DFT/B3LYP level of theory using two different basis sets 6-31+G(d, p) and cc-pVTZ. The calculated vibrational spectra of the untreated, mercerized and oxidized cellulose monomer agree well with the ATR-FTIR spectra, confirming chemical modification. DFT calculations of thermodynamic properties revealed the feasibility of the reactions. Electronic property (NBO charge) indicated charge transfer and structural changes during chemical modification.

Modification of bemban fiber (donax canniformis) with variations in NaOH concentration and soaking time

Abstract Modification and characterization of the physical, chemical and morphological properties of chemically engineered bemban fibers have been carried out with various NaOH concentrations and soaking times. The aim is to obtain the most optimal bemban fiber modification result so that they can be recommended as functional material reinforcement in composites. Fibers were modified by soaking for 1, 2 and 3 hours in NaOH solutions with concentrations of 2%, 3% and 4%; and also at 5% NaOH for 0.5 hours, 1 hour and 2 hours. The modification has reduced the lignin content and increased the cellulose fiber content. These results were confirmed by the results of the functional group spectrum using FTIR and fiber morphology using SEM. The physical properties of fiber such as water content, fiber diameter and porosity decreased while fiber density increased. The characteristics of the bemban fiber with modification in 5% NaOH solution for 2 hours have optimum values for the modifications carried out.

Processing and characterization of waste dolomite dust filled hemp‐epoxy composites

AbstractThe necessity to adapt sustainable development, green chemistry and industrial ecology leads to the creation of newer materials and the utilization of waste. In this context, this work aims at exploring the feasibility of the fabrication of hybrid composites comprised of a polymeric resin reinforced with a natural fiber (hemp) and an industry waste filler (dolomite dust). While the hemp fiber content is kept constant, epoxy‐based hybrid composites are fabricated with different weight percentages of dolomite dust using the conventional hand lay‐up route. The microstructural features of the constituent materials are studied using stereo and scanning electron microscopes which show the shape and size of dolomite particles and the arrangement of fibers. An x‐ray diffraction analysis revealed the presence of hematite, graphite, lime and manganite. The presence of functional groups like hydroxyl, carboxyl and azide is ascertained from the transmittance spectra of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The density and void fractions are increasing with the amount of filler particles in the composite. It is observed that the tensile and flexural strengths of the composites marginally drop with increase in dolomite dust content, but there is a reasonable improvement in their inter‐laminar shear strength, micro‐hardness and impact strength values.

Development of ready-to-eat nutri bar from black soybean (Kala Bhatt) and millets: Exploring traditional foods of Uttarakhand

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition, particularly insufficient intake of certain micronutrients, limits a child’s ability to survive, grow, and develop. It increases the rate of morbidity and mortality among the most vulnerable populations, which significantly lowers their productivity as an adult. While adopting strategies to tackle malnutrition, regional diets must also be considered. METHODS: Based on the nutritive values, some staple ingredients from Uttarakhand, such as black soybean, finger millet, and foxtail millet, have been utilized to develop a ready-to-eat (RTE) packaged nutri-bar. A sensory characteristic evaluation of the product has been carried out. The product has been evaluated in the laboratory for its proximate composition, some minerals, presence of heavy metals, pesticide, and shelf-life. RESULTS: The proximate composition of RTE nutri-bar includes protein content 18.16%, carbohydrate content 54.82%, total fats 12.13%, moisture 12.21%, and an ash value of 2.68%. Dietary fiber content is found to be 8.09%, and the energy evaluated for a 100-g sample is 401.09 Kcal. Calcium is present in very good amounts, that is, 478.44 mg/100 g. The amount of pesticide residues and added anti-oxidants are found below the level of quantification. CONCLUSION: The use of traditional foods in local communities has declined, but it may be revived with an appropriate framework, policy, and information sharing in conjunction with contextual food-based treatments.

Age- and sex-specific biomechanics and extracellular matrix remodeling of the ascending aorta in a mouse model of severe Marfan syndrome.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is associated with Marfan syndrome (MFS), a connective tissue disorder caused by mutations in fibrillin-1. Sexual dimorphism has been recorded for TAA outcomes in MFS, but detailed studies on the differences in TAA progression in males and females and their relationships to outcomes have not been performed. The aims of this study were to determine sex differences in the diameter dilatation, mechanical properties, and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling over time in a severe mouse model (Fbn1mgR/mgR = MU) of MFS-associated TAA that has a shortened life span. Male and female MU and wildtype (WT) mice were used at 1-4 mo of age. Blood pressure and in vivo diameters of the ascending thoracic aorta were recorded using a tail-cuff system and ultrasound imaging, respectively. Ex vivo mechanics and ECM remodeling of the aorta were characterized using a biaxial test system and multiphoton imaging, respectively. We showed that mechanical properties, such as structural and material stiffness, and ECM remodeling, such as elastic and collagen fiber content, correlated with diameter dilatation during TAA progression. Male MU mice had accelerated rates of diameter dilatation, stiffening, and ECM remodeling compared with female MU mice which may have contributed to their decreased life span. The correlation of mechanical properties and ECM remodeling with diameter dilatation suggests that they may be useful biomarkers for TAA progression. The differences in diameter dilatation and life spans in male and female MU mice indicate that sex is an important consideration for managing thoracic aortic aneurysm in MFS. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using a mouse model (Fbn1mgR/mgR = MU) of severe thoracic aortic aneurysm in Marfan syndrome (MFS), we found that male MU aorta had an accelerated time line and increased amounts of dilatation, stiffening, and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling compared with female MU aorta that may have contributed to an increased risk of fatigue failure with cyclic loading over time and a reduced life span. We suggest that aortic stiffness may provide useful information for clinical management of aneurysms in MFS.

Valorization of agricultural by-product for cleaner and sustainable production of microbial pigments and cellulolytic enzymes in a zero-waste approach

This work presents a zero-waste concept for the valorization of banana peel into Monascus value-added metabolites, such as pigments and cellulolytic enzymes, and for evaluation of the feasibility of treated peel as a promising source for animal feedstuff. M. purpureus YRU01 exhibited satisfactory pigment and cellulolytic enzyme production in solid-state fermentation. Particularly, repeated solid-state fermentation of non-sterile peel with 90% substrate replacement was effective in offering high recovery of pigments, xylanase, and cellulase (7.19-, 31.19-, and 92.62-fold higher than those of solid-state fermentation, respectively). The LC/MS profile of fermented peel provided important evidence of fungal metabolites (>100 metabolites) for understanding and evaluating the fermentation. Moreover, citrinin-related mycotoxin fragments were not found. The treated peel had high carbohydrate, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber contents, but low protein content, indicating its potential to be used as a roughage in animal feed.

Intake and digestibility of four rations with different fiber levels in alpacas (Vicugna pacos).

The aim of this study was to evaluated the impact of different fibre levels in alpaca diet on voluntary feed intake and apparent digestibility, and to estimate the digestibility of organic matter (OMD) from the content of crude protein (CP) in feces. The study was carried out with twelve alpacas (36.7 ± 6.4kg body weight- BW), which were offered 4 treatments with different neutral detergent fiber content (NDF. T1: 40.3%; T2: 62%; T3: 68%; T4: 72%) under a switch back design. Absolute daily dry matter intake (DMI) was higher for T1 (678g/d) than T4 (312g/d) (p ≥ 005). NDF intake was similar between treatments when related to BW or MW (on average 1% BW and 22g/kg MW. p ≥ 0.05). Water intake (L/kg DMI) was higher in T1 compared to the other treatments, with values ranging from 2.9 L/kg DMI(T1) to 2.8 L/kg DMI(T4), respectively (p ≤ 0.05). Digestibility of dry matter, organic matter and CP was higher in T1 than in the other treatments, with average values ranging from 72% for T1 to 32% for T4 (p ≤ 0.05). NDF digestibility was similar among treatments (p ≥ 0.05). The regression equation generated to predict OMD (y) was as follows: y = 0.360 + 0.08294*fecal CP (g/kg OM). Further studies will indicate whether faecal nitrogen can be used to estimate digestibility and hence diet quality in South American camelids.

Differences in Physicochemical Properties of Stems in Oat (Avena sativa L.) Varieties with Distinct Lodging Resistance and Their Regulation of Lodging at Different Planting Densities.

Planting density is an effective strategy for regulating both oat lodging and forage quality. To delve into the regulatory mechanisms of planting density on lodging and oat forage quality, lodging-resistant variety LENA and lodging-sensitive variety QY2 were grown in 2018 and 2019 growing seasons, and four planting densities were implemented: 2.25 × 106 plants/ha (D1), 4.5 × 106 plants/ha (D2), 6.75 × 106 plants/ha (D3), and 9 × 106 plants/ha (D4). At the milk stage, we measured the contents of potassium, calcium, magnesium, silicon, lignin, crude fiber, starch, soluble sugar, and soluble protein in the second and third stem internodes of the plants. The results revealed the lodging-resistant variety LENA demonstrated significantly higher contents of calcium, potassium, silicon, crude fiber, lignin, and lower contents of starch, soluble sugar, and soluble protein (p < 0.01). Similar trends in the physicochemical properties of stem internodes for both oat varieties with increasing planting density. Crude fiber, soluble sugar, magnesium, starch, potassium, and lignin were the key characteristics affecting the lodging coefficient, and variety and planting density affected the lodging coefficient mainly by regulating the synthesis of starch, soluble sugar, and crude fiber. At planting density D3, stem internodes exhibited higher physicochemical properties and a lower lodging coefficient, favoring oat forage production. The results offer a valuable theoretical foundation and practical reference for oat lodging-resistant cultivation.

Karakteristik Sensori dan Fisikokimia Kukis dari Campuran Tepung Mocaf dan Tepung Kulit Buah Naga

To support the goal of zero waste outlined in the sustainable development goals (SDGs), repurposing dragon fruit peel waste presents a promising opportunity. In Indonesia, the high demand for dragon fruit leads to the generation of considerable organic waste. This study explored the use of dragon fruit peel flour, combined with modified cassava (mocaf) flour, as a wheat flour alternative to improve the sensory and chemical properties of gluten-free cookies. The research involved preparing the flours and cookies, followed by conducting sensory, physical, and chemical analyses. A completely randomized design (CRD) was employed, testing five formulations with varying ratios of mocaf flour to dragon fruit peel flour. The results indicated that 73% of panelists preferred the crispiness of cookies containing 25% dragon fruit peel flour, while 60% were satisfied with the color of cookies containing 45% dragon fruit peel flour. Physical analysis showed no significant differences in thickness or bake loss, but there were notable differences in diameter, spread ratio, and color. As the proportion of dragon fruit peel flour increased, the cookies showed significant improvements in chemical characteristics, including higher levels of moisture, ash, fat, protein, and fiber content. Additionally, the content of total phenolics and antioxidant activity increased with higher ratios of dragon fruit peel flour, reaching 1.14 mg GAE/g for total phenolics and 662.64 mg AAE/g for antioxidant activity. FTIR analysis revealed a consistent absorbance pattern across samples, with minor variations in peak intensities at specific wavenumbers. Based on the sensory, physical, and chemical evaluations, cookies containing 45% dragon fruit peel flour were recommended for production.

INVESTIGATION OF THE SHEAR STRENGTH OF REINFORCED SILTY SAND

Introduction: This paper presents an experimental investigation that aims to study the influence of silt content, glass fiber content, and their combined effect on the shear behavior of silty sand. For this purpose, a series of tests using direct shear apparatus (as methods) were carried out on sand mixed with various silt and fiber contents. Samples were prepared with a relative density of 50 %, and each mixture was tested at three different normal stresses. The experimental results indicated an increase in shear strength at 10 % silt content, followed by a decrease in shear strength with increasing silt content from 10 % to 30 %. It was also found that 0.5 % is the optimal content that can be added to sand-silt mixtures to enhance their shear strength and friction angle, although the mixtures become more contractive.

The proximate composition of vegetables enriched by incorporation of municipal solid waste into fertilizers and its impacts on environment and human health

The recent over production of municipal solid waste (MSW) poses a significant threat to both the ecosystem and human health. Utilizing MSW for agricultural purposes has emerged as a promising strategy to reduce solid waste disposal while simultaneously increasing soil fertility. To explore this potential solution further, an experiment was designed to assess the impact of varying concentrations of MSW (25%, 50%, and 75%) on the proximate composition of 15 different vegetable species. The experiment, conducted between 2018 and 2019, involved treating soil with different levels of solid waste and analyzing the proximate components, such as crude protein, dry matter, crude fiber, crude fat, and moisture content, in the 15 selected crops. The results indicate that the application of 25% MSW significantly increased the levels of crude protein, crude fiber, dry matter, and fat in Spinacia oleracea, Solanum tuberosum, Solanum melongena, and Abelmoschus esculentus. Conversely, the addition of 75% MSW notably elevated the moisture and ash content in Cucumis sativus. Correlation and scatter matrix analyses were conducted to elucidate the relationships between the protein, fiber, dry matter, ash, and fat contents. Principal component analysis and clustering confirmed the substantial impact of Treatment_1 (25% MSW) and Treatment_3 (75% MSW) on the proximate composition of the aforementioned vegetables, leading to their categorization into distinct groups. Our study highlights the efficacy of using 25% MSW to enhance the proximate composition and nutritional value of vegetables. Nonetheless, further research is warranted to investigate the mineral, antioxidant, vitamin, and heavy metal contents in the soil over an extended period of MSW application.

Nutrients and Antioxidants from Petit Verdot Grape Pomace Powder

T he study aimed to characterize pomace powder from the Petit Verdot grape of Mexican winemaking. The powder pomace (dry basis from pomace) was analyzed and contained 6.65% moisture, 9.17% fat, 9.54% protein, 51.41% dietary fiber, 6.10% soluble fiber, 45.3% insoluble fiber, and 4.62% ash. Also, the powder pomace contained various minerals, including calcium, copper, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium, and potassium. The phenolic compounds found were hydrated quercetin, a cinnamic acid derivative, and a p-coumaric acid derivative. The limited diversity of phenolics in grape pomace powder is counterbalanced by its elevated dietary fiber and nutritional content, positioning it as a viable ingredient for food processing. The freeze-dried grape pomace powder contained a load of 4 log CFU/g, and the MacConkey culture medium detected no possible pathogenic microorganisms. These findings suggest that grape pomace powder could be a promising addition to the food industry, offering a rich source of nutrients and bioactive compounds.